The risk of cancer associated with the condition known as Barrett's esophagus may be lower than previously thought, according to a new long-term study. The findings suggest the recommended routine cancer screenings among Barrett's esophagus patients are based on inflated estimates of cancer risk and may not be necessary. "It emphasizes the need to not only identify those with who have Barrett's esophagus but also to then identify those who will go on to possibly develop cancer, since most will not. We can then create a more selective approach to the one to two percent of Americans who have Barrett's,” said Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy, an associate professor of medicine and gastroenterology, and medical director of endoscopy at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. Learn more